The Legend of Zelda is one of the most beloved and enduring video game series of all time. Since the release of the first game in 1986, players have been captivated by the adventures of Link, Hyrule’s hero. The main mission is to rescue Princess Zelda and save the land from evil forces. One of the defining features of the series is its challenging and memorable boss fights. These battles serve as climatic moments in the game and test players’ skills and strategies. This article counts down the ten best boss fights in the Legend of Zelda series.
10 Best Boss Fights in the Legend of Zelda Series
These boss fights were selected based on their level of challenge, uniqueness, and impact on the game’s overall story. Whether you’re a die-hard Zelda fan or just looking for some great boss fights to add to your gaming bucket list, this article is sure to have something for everyone.
10. Ganon – The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Ganon is the final boss of Ocarina of Time and is a perfect epic showdown to determine the fate of Hyrule. The battle has two phases, and Ganon, a formidable opponent, doesn’t fall easily. Ganon has a number of tricks up his sleeve, which makes defeating the king of evil more satisfying. It might be one of the easiest boss fights, but it still is a fun achievement, thanks to the cut scene that sees Link bashing at Ganon’s skull.
9. Twinrova – The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Twinrova is a two-headed sorceress and one of the most unique bosses in Ocarina of Time. The fight requires quick reflexes and precise timing, and the dynamic between the two sisters makes for an interesting and entertaining battle. Absorb their elemental damage, ice, and fire and reflect it back to the witch sisters. For the final showdown, you will fight one giant evil monster as sisters combine into one. The payoff is worth it, as defeating Twinrova reveals the location of the Spirit Temple and moves the story forward. Furthermore, you see the sisters float to the afterlife.
8. Puppet Ganon – The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Puppet Ganon, the boss fight in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, is a thrilling battle that takes place in three phases. What sets this boss fight apart is its use of music and visuals. The intense music and dark atmosphere make this boss fight unforgettable. Furthermore, the third and final phase of the fight adds something special to the entire story as Zelda and Link unite to bring this evil creature down.
7. Ganondorf – The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Ganondorf, the final boss of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, is a memorable and challenging boss fight. Essentially, it is a harder, darker version of the Wind Waker’s Puppet Ganon, which makes it closer to No. 1 on our list of 10 best boss fights in the Legend of Zelda series. What makes it special is that battle takes place on horseback, with players using their swords and bows to attack Ganondorf while dodging his attacks. After the horseback fight, players take on the evil enemy dueling with swords until death.
6. Majora’s Mask – The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
The final boss fight in The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask is one of the series’ most unique and challenging battles. Players face off against the eerie and powerful Majora’s Mask, and the final phase has players battling a twisted version of the mask itself. What sets this boss fight apart is its use of symbolism and psychological horror. The eerie visuals and haunting music create a sense of unease, making the battle feel like a struggle for survival. It is a perfect end to one of the best games of all time and undoubtedly deserves a place on our list of 10 best boss fights in the Legend of Zelda series.
5. Stallord – The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
You are never ready to take on a giant demonic floating skull chasing Link around the arena. However, it might be the scariest boy ever in the series, but it is not that tough. Players must use their spinner, a mechanical device that resembles a top, to defeat the Stallord. Divided into phases, once you bring him down, all you need to do is to slash at him with your Master Sword. Beware of the fireballs that this demonic skull spews at you.
4. Koloktos – The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
The Skyward Sword is a bittersweet symphony for many players and Legend of Zelda lovers. One of the boss fights that stand out is against the six-armed automaton. Link must use the whip to get close to Koloktos weak point. Once Link removes Atomaton’s arms with the whip, he then needs to slash highly and mighty with the Master Sword. Then grab the swords for each of the Koloktos’s hands. The battle demands strategy and high-profile mechanics, which makes it one of the best boss fights in the Legend of Zelda series.
3. Moldorm – The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Probably the most annoying boss in the entire The Legend of Zelda series as the players take on it on the roof of the Tower of Hera. A Link To The Past came out in 1991, but it is still one of the most loved games and best SNES originals. Players need to hit his rear end, aka his tail but need to be careful not to allow Moldorm to push them to lower floors since this restarts the fight. This boss fight isn’t easy, but that’s what makes it special.
2. Helmaroc King – The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
The pesky giant bird, Helmaroc King, is the Ganondorf’s servant and, as such, is a satisfying creature to defeat. While not the easiest or toughest, you just need the hammer to smack it on its giant face. Don’t let it peck you, as it is quite easy to dodge it. Other attacks include the fly-over and wind gusts that are also easily avoidable but be prepared for a thought fight. What makes it unique is the dark, unsettling atmosphere on the rooftop and the rising water.
1. Phantom Ganon – The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
The fight against Phantom Ganon is perhaps the best boss fight in the entire series. It takes place in one of the favorite dungeons, rated by players, The Forest Temple. As this unique villain is jumping in and out of the haunted paintings, riding his evil horse, it all reminisces Sleepy Hollow. However, Ocarina of Time is a pretty bewildering story on its own, and defeating the Phantom Ganon just adds to it. Make sure you attack the lighter-colored Ganon in this fight, and everything will work out your way. Bring back the Princess from the hands of the evil king.
While we have listed just the ten best boss fights in the Legend of Zelda series, there are plenty of other great boss battles to take on this magnificent adventure. We didn’t forget about Demise, Gyorg, Dark Link, and other fights that deserve a place on the list, as they offer a bunch of challenges and memorable moments.
